Jean Carol Gwyn

Jean Carol Gwyn, 87, gained her heavenly wings on Friday, October 17, 2025. Born July 25, 1938, in Coalwood, West Virginia, she was the eldest of five children born to the late Prince Paul Strickland and Ruth Davis Strickland. From her earliest years, her bright humor and bold personality earned her the nickname “Tillie,” after the comic strip heroine of the 1920s and 30s who represented independence, wit, and the modern working woman qualities Jean embodied throughout her life.

Jean’s family later moved to Welch, West Virginia, where she attended segregated schools and proudly graduated as the 1956 Kimball High School Queen. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Long Island, New York, working as a live-in nanny before making a courageous decision that would shape her future: she enlisted in

the United States Air Force and trained as a Licensed Practical Nurse specializing in surgical care.

After a tour in the Air Force she enrolled in Poro Beauty and Barber College in Indianapolis, IN where she met the late Richard L. Hampton the father of her three children: Sondra, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and business owner; Byron, a respected professional at the Department Of Treasury and business owner.

Jean inspired her family and everyone she met with unwavering encouragement, optimism, and belief in one reaching and achieving their own greatness.

Jean’s beauty was matched only by her confidence and leadership. She loved good conversation, laughter, and traveling the world. Her passport bears stamps from several countries across every continent. One of her most memorable profound experiences was her travel to Israel, where she was baptized in the Jordan River.

A lifelong learner and high achiever, Jean thrived in everything she pursued. While working at Methodist Hospital, the renowned late Dr. George Rawls recognized her exceptional skill and selected her as his personal surgical nurse. After more than 15 years of excellence in surgical nursing, she followed her passion into sales

becoming a Regional Sales Representative for the Flori Roberts cosmetics company while also serving in the United States Army Reserves.

Recognizing her natural leadership, the U.S. Army Reserves transitioned her into a full-time role as a nurse recruiter. Jean served her country with honor across the United States; Indianapolis, Anchorage, Honolulu, San Francisco and finally Fort

Knox, Kentucky, there she would be closer to her daughter Sondra (John III) and grandson John IV. While in Kentucky, she continued advancing her education, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Jean retired with distinction as an Enlistment Standards Investigator. In true Tillie fashion, she later sought sunshine and new adventures, making her home in Goodyear, Arizona.

Life brought her back to Robert L. Gwyn, a familiar classmate from junior high school. After reconnecting at class reunions, friendship blossomed into love, and on May 16, 2009, they were united in marriage. Robert became her beloved partner in laughter, travel, and community events such as The Pebblecreek Just Folks Club.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Milton and her sister, Joyce all of whom she cherished deeply. She leaves to honor her legacy her devoted husband, Robert L. Gwyn; her loving

children Sondra (John III), Byron, and her youngest daughter; her cherished grandchildren John IV (Lexie), Jeremiah, and Joshua; and her precious great grandchildren John V and Norah. She is also survived by siblings Geraldine and Prince Paul; and two special cousins Janet and Karen; and a large family of nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Jean lived boldly and laughed loudly. Her legacy is one of service, adventure, faith, and unstoppable spirit a life fully and beautifully lived. She will be forever remembered as a true example of beauty, strength, style, and the power of believing in oneself.